Cost of Living in Fairview, MT

With a cost of living index of 68, Fairview, MT is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 32% cheaper than the national average and 20% below the Montana state average of 89. Fairview is a small community of 919 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Fairview's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $689 (48% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $178,800 (41% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 2.2x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Fairview is $80,903, which is 8% higher than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 10% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Fairview. The area sees an average annual temperature of 41.7°F, with summers averaging 68°F and winters around 15°F. Annual rainfall totals 15.1 inches spread over roughly 100 days. Cold winters mean higher heating bills, an important cost-of-living consideration.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.